set upon
Definition
- Verb (transitive):
- To attack someone or something suddenly and violently.
- To strongly criticize or oppose someone or something.
Usage
The verb "set upon" is used to describe the act of launching a sudden, often aggressive, physical or verbal assault. It typically implies being outnumbered or overwhelmed by attackers or critics. It is commonly used in the passive voice (e.g., be set upon).
Examples
- Physical Attack:
- The tourists were set upon by a gang of thieves in the narrow alley.
- The lone wolf was set upon by the pack.
- Verbal/Critical Attack:
- The minister was set upon by journalists as soon as he left the building.
- Her controversial proposal was set upon by members of the opposition.
Advanced Usage
- "to set upon someone/something": This is the standard construction. The preposition "upon" can sometimes be replaced with "on," though "upon" is more formal.
- He turned the corner and was immediately set on by three men.
- The phrase often conveys a sense of being besieged or beset from multiple sides.
Variants and Related Words
- Beset (verb): To trouble or harass persistently; to surround and attack. (A close synonym often used in definitions of "set upon").
- Assail (verb): To attack violently or criticize harshly.
- Ambush (verb/noun): To attack from a concealed position.
Synonyms
- Attack
- Assault
- Beset
- Fall upon
- Ambush
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Set on: Can be used interchangeably with "set upon" in the context of attacking.
- The dogs were set on the intruder.
Related Idioms
- Set about: To begin doing something with energy or determination. (Note: This is different from "set upon," which is about attack).
- She set about cleaning the house.
Verb
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assail or attack on all sides: "The zebra was beset by leopards"
